Container for Displaying and Storing Linens

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a novel enclosure that can be used for the display and storage of linens and linen sets. The invention also relates to a novel enclosure that can be used for the display and storage of sheet sets. The enclosures of the invention can also be used for storage of linens, clothes, and other items when in an unfolded configuration. The enclosures of the invention can also be used to store clothing and other items via hanging when unfolded.

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/129,846, entitled “Garment Bag,” filed on Jul. 23, 2008, which application is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a novel container that can be used for the display and storage of linens and linen sets. The invention also relates to a novel container that can be used for the display and storage of sheet sets. The containers of the invention can also be used for storage of linens, clothes, and other items when in an unfolded configuration. The containers of the invention can also be used to store clothing and other items via hanging when unfolded.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many stores sell bedding and linens in plastic packages. Using such packaging, the design of the linens is typically visible through the package, enabling consumers to see the items and ensure that they purchase the item(s) they desire. In addition, many stores also sell what are known as bed-in-a-bag sets. Here, a full bedding ensemble is contained within one package. Bed-in-a-bag sets can include one or more comforters, sheets, pillowcases, blankets, pillows, mattress pads, shams, dust ruffles, and combinations thereof. In some instances, a mattress pad and/or matching draperies can also be included.

The packages for bedding, either alone or as a complete bedding ensemble, are normally large square plastic packages. These packages can be unwieldy and cumbersome for retailers to display and for consumers to transport. Further, these plastic packages often do not contain any separate compartments, whereby the individual components can be separately stored.

A consumer who purchases a comforter or bedding ensemble packaged in a single container or package is likely to discard the packaging. Further, should a consumer decide not to dispose of the packaging, the size and shape of the package would often make it difficult to use for any other purpose. For example, the packaging would be difficult to fit under a bed or a sofa, making storage of any other items problematic at best. Further, trying to fit the bedding ensemble back into the package for storage is also difficult, as consumers generally cannot fold the items back into the folded condition as sold.

Accordingly, there is a need for a simple, easy-to-use enclosure for the storage and display of linens, comforters and/or sheet sets. Such a enclosure would enable easy display of linens and linen sets in a store, so that the consumer can see each of the components of the set. Further, a need also exists for a enclosure that can be used for both the in-store display of linens and for the easy storage of linens or other items by the consumer after purchase.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the invention relates to a container comprising an enclosure having an inner side and an outer side, wherein the outer side is substantially transparent. The container also comprises a first article within the enclosure. The enclosure is foldable, and when folded, the outer side surrounds the inner side.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to container system comprising a first enclosure having a first inner side and a first outer side, wherein the first outer side is substantially transparent; and a second enclosure having a second inner side and a second outer side. The first enclosure and the second enclosure are foldable, and wherein, when folded, the first outer side and second outer sides surround the first and second inner sides. The container system includes a first article within the first enclosure and a second article within the second enclosure. The container system further comprises a flexible portion connecting the first enclosure and the second enclosure.

In a third embodiment, the invention relates to a container comprising an enclosure defined by an outer side; an inner side; a first side panel; a second side panel; a top panel; and a bottom panel. The outer side is substantially transparent. The outer side and the inner side of the enclosure are opposite each other, the first side panel and the second side panel are opposite each other, and the top panel and the bottom panel are opposite each other. The outer side and the inner side are the same size; the first side panel and the second side panel are the same size; and the top panel and the bottom panel are the same size. The enclosure is foldable, and, when folded, the outer side surrounds the inner side. The container further comprises a fastening device on the outer side of the enclosure for holding the enclosure in a folded configuration; a comforter within the enclosure; a sheet within the enclosure; and a pillowcase within the enclosure.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims. Although the present disclosure has applicability beyond storing and displaying linens in a rectangular enclosure, the present disclosure will describe the use of the systems and methods in the context of a rectangular configuration, with the understanding that those skilled in the art having the present disclosure before them can apply the teachings of this invention to other contexts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood by reference to the detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 depicts a first embodiment of a container consistent with the invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a second embodiment a container consistent with the invention.

FIG. 3 depicts the container of FIG. 1 in a folded configuration.

FIG. 4 depicts a third embodiment of a container consistent with the invention in an open configuration.

FIG. 5 depicts the container of FIG. 4 in a folded configuration.

FIG. 6 depicts a fourth embodiment of a container consistent with the invention.

FIG. 7 depicts the container of FIG. 6 in a folded configuration.

FIG. 8 depicts the container of FIG. 6 placed under a bed.

FIG. 9 depicts the container of FIG. 6 in a folded configuration, holding a comforter and a sheet and pillowcase set.

FIG. 10 depicts a fifth embodiment of a container system consistent with the invention in a folded configuration.

FIG. 11 depicts the container system of FIG. 10 in a partially open configuration.

FIG. 12 depicts a sixth embodiment of the container system consistent with the invention in a folded configuration.

FIG. 13 depicts the container system of FIG. 12 in a partially open configuration.

FIGS. 14 a-14 c depict the top view of the container system of FIG. 10 in an open, a partially open, and a closed configuration.

FIGS. 15 a-15 b depict two frontal views of the container system of FIG. 10 in open configurations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms, the drawings and discussions are presented with the understanding that the present disclosure is an exemplification of the principles of one or more inventions and is not intended to limit any one of the inventions to the embodiments illustrated.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention showing the container 100 in an unfolded configuration. The container 100 for storing or displaying linens comprises an enclosure 155, having an outer side 125 and an inner side 130, which are opposite each other. The outer side 125 of the enclosure 155 can be substantially transparent.

The enclosure 155 can further comprise a top panel 105 and a bottom panel 110, which are situated opposite of one another. A first side panel 115 and a second side panel 120 are situated in opposition. The four panels, outer side, and inner side 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130 are connected, and can be used for the storage or display of bedding and linen components. Although depicted as substantially rectangular, it should be understood that the shape of the enclosure 155 of the invention can vary.

In one aspect of the invention, the bedding and linen components can be one or more comforters, sheets, pillowcases, mattress pads, draperies, blankets, pillows, shams, dust ruffles, and any combination thereof.

In another aspect of the invention, the packaging can also include a hook, or a specially designed hole, whereby a hook or hanger can be inserted. These features enable a consumer to hang the enclosure in a closet, whereby clothes or other items can be stored for future use.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the dimensions of the container are such that it is easy to fold and unfold, and are suitable for storage under a bed, sofa or other suitable piece of furniture. The ratio of the length of the container to the width of the container to the depth of the container can be from about 2:0.5:0.1 to about 4:2:0.1. Preferably, the container has a length to width to depth ratio of about 3:1:0.1. Alternatively, the specific dimensions can be from about 40 inches to about 60 inches long, about 15 inches to about to about 22 inches wide, and about 4 inches to about 6 inches deep. Preferably, the container can be about 50 inches long, about 18 inches wide and about 5 inches deep. These dimensions enable the container to be easily stowed in a small space, either under a bed or sofa or hanging in a closet, without taking up a substantial amount of space.

As seen in FIG. 1, the container 100 can further comprise a first flexible portion 140 as part of the outer side 125. The flexible portion 140 can be, but is not limited to, elastic fabric, vinyl, rubber, or latex. The flexible portion 140 enables the enclosure to be folded along an axis. In an alternative embodiment, each of the three panels 115, 120, 125, can have the flexible portions situated in more than one location. This will allow the enclosure 155 to be folded in two, three, or more layers. The flexible portion 140 is attached via seams 160. The seams 160 also function to assist in the folding of the container 100.

The container 100 also has a closure system 150 that connects the inner side 130 with the top panel 105, the bottom panel 110, and the first side panel 115 to form the enclosure 155. The enclosure 155 includes an opening 108 (as seen in FIG. 4), said container further comprising a closure system 150 along the opening 108 of the enclosure 155 wherein the closure system 150 has an open position and a closed position. When closed, the linens can be easily stored or displayed. The closure system 150 allows the enclosure 155 to retain at least one article 910 within, when in a closed position (as seen in FIG. 9). The closure system 150 can be, but is not limited to, a zipper, a snap system, a tie system, or VELCRO® (a system made of book-and-loop fasteners, hooks on one portion and loops on the other). The container 100 can also comprise a handle 145 attached to the outer side of the enclosure 155. When in a folded configuration, the handle 145 enables the container 100 holding linens to be easily carried or transported.

FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of the container 100. Here, the container has a wire 210 around the perimeter of the outer side 125 in two sections. This imparts a greater stability to the enclosure 155. The enclosure 155 can further comprise a second flexible portion 220 as part of the first side panel 115; and a third flexible portion 230 as part of the second side panel 120; in addition to the first flexible portion 140 as part of the outer side 125. The flexible portions 140, 220, 230 can be, but are not limited to, elastic fabric, vinyl, rubber, or latex. The flexible portions 140, 220, 230 enable the enclosure to be folded along an axis. In an alternative embodiment, each of the three panels 115, 120, 125, can have the flexible portions situated in more than one location. This will allow the enclosure to be folded in two, three, or more layers. The flexible portions 140, 220, 230 are attached via seams 160.

FIG. 3 illustrates the container 100 of the invention, as depicted in FIG. 1, in a folded configuration. The flexible portion 140 enables the enclosure 155 to easily conform to a folded configuration. This enables a retailer or wholesaler to display the packaged linens in a manner that is easily set up within the store and easily observable to a consumer. Optionally, the enclosure can be held in a folded configuration by a fastening device 610, 650, as shown in FIG. 6. The fastening device 610, 650 can be, but is not limited to, a VELCRO®, a snap system, a zipper, a tie system, and a loop-and-button system. The fastening device 610, 650 can be located on the outer side 125 of the enclosure 155.

FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the container 100 of the invention. Here, the outer side 125 of the enclosure 155 has one or more cardboard stiffeners 410 along the inside of the outer side 125. The cardboard stiffeners 410 can preferably be in two portions one at the top of the outer side 125, one at the bottom of the outer side 125. The cardboard stiffeners 410 impart greater stability to the enclosure 155. In addition, the cardboard stiffeners 410 can be encased in a fabric material 420. This is usually done for design purposes. The fabric material 420 can be, but is not limited to, canvas, cotton cloth, a metallic fabric, or any available fabric. The color of the fabric material 420 can be any available color, or can match the design of the linens.

FIG. 5 illustrates the container 100 of the invention as depicted in FIG. 4, having cardboard stiffeners 410, which are covered with the fabric material 420. Here, the enclosure 155 is in a fully folded configuration.

FIG. 6 illustrates the container 100 of the invention, wherein the enclosure 155 further comprises pouch compartments 620, 630, 640 on the inside of the outer side 125. These pouches 620, 630, 640 are designed to hold sheets and pillowcases that are being sold in combination with comforters as a complete bedding set. The enclosure 155 can comprise one pouch 620, which can hold a second article 920 (as seen in FIG. 9). There can be an additional pouch 660, also located on the outer side 125, which can be used to hold other decorative items. For example, the items held in this pouch can be, but are not limited to, pillows, extra pillow cases, or pillow shams. The enclosure 155 can also further comprise a fastening system 610, 650, whereby the two ends can be held together when the enclosure 155 is folded about an axis. This fastening system 610, 650, which is made of two portions, one on the top 610 and one on the bottom 650, can be, but is not limited to VELCRO®, a snap system, a tie system and a loop-and-button system.

FIG. 7 illustrates the container 100 of the invention as depicted in FIG. 6, having pouch compartments 620, 630, 640, 660, and a fastening system 610, 650 closing the two ends of the folded enclosure 100.

FIG. 8 illustrates that the container 100 of the invention can be left in an unfolded configuration, which enables easy storage of the container 100 under a bed, a couch, or other piece of furniture 810. When used for storage, the container 100 can be filled with the original bedding and linen components, or can be used for storage of clothes, toys, accessories, and the like.

FIG. 9 illustrates the enclosure 100 of the invention in use holding a bedding ensemble. Here, the container 100 holds a comforter 910, a sheet 920, and two pillowcases 930, 940 in pouches 620, 630, 640 within the enclosure 155. Alternatively, the enclosure 155 can hold only one pillowcase within (not shown). In another embodiment, the enclosure 100 can hold a second sheet (not shown) in a second pouch 660. The two sheets can comprise one fitted sheet and one flat sheet.

The container 100 comprises an enclosure 155 defined by an outer side 125, an inner side 130, a top panel 105, a bottom panel 110, a first side panel 115, and a second side panel 120. The outer side 125 is substantially transparent. The outer side 125 and the inner side 130 are opposite each other; the top panel 105 and the bottom panel 110; and the first side panel 115 and the second side panel 120 are opposite each other. The outer side 125 and the inner side 130 are the same size; the top panel 105 and the bottom panel 110 are the same size; and the first side panel 115 and the second side panel 120 are the same size. The top panel 105, the bottom panel 110, the first side panel 115, and the second side panel 120 are each connected to the outer side 125 and the inner side 130. The enclosure 155 is capable of folding along an axis. The container 100 also comprises a fastening device 610, 650 on the outer side of the enclosure 155 for holding the enclosure 155 in a folded configuration. The enclosure 155 can have within, a comforter 910, a sheet 920, and a pillowcase 930.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of displaying or storing linens using the container 100 of the invention. The method comprises the steps of providing a container 100 as described above, inserting linens into the container 100, and displaying the container 100 containing the linens. In one embodiment, the container 100 and linens can be displayed at a store. In another embodiment, the container 100 and linens can be displayed in an online or print catalog. The container 100 is envisioned as having one, several, or all of the characteristics as shown in FIGS. 1-9 and described above. It is readily apparent to one skilled in the art that one, some, or all of these characteristics can be found in a container 100 being used in the method of displaying linens.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of storing linens or other items. Here, the container 100 is provided, and linens or other items can be inserted into the container 100. The container 100 and linens or other items can be stored unfolded under a bed or sofa, or unfolded and hung in a closet. The container 100 is envisioned as having one, several, or all of the characteristics as shown in FIGS. 1-9 and described above. It is readily apparent to one skilled in the art that one, some, or all of these characteristics can be found in a container 100 being used in a method of storing linens or other items.

FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the invention. Here, container system 1000 is shown. Container system 1000 has two separate, but attached enclosures 1002, 1004. Each enclosure 1002, 1004 comprises an outer side 1042 and an inner side 1044, which are opposite each other and the same size. The outer side 1042 of the first enclosure is substantially transparent.

The enclosures 1002, 1004 can each comprise a top panel 1010 and bottom panel 1020, which are situated opposite each other and are the same size. Each enclosure 1002, 1004 further comprises a first side panel 1030 and a second side panel 1040, which are positioned opposite each other and are the same size. The enclosures 1002, 1004 also each comprise a closure system 1050 connecting the first side panel 1030, the second side panel and the outer side 1042. The first enclosure 1002 and the second enclosure 1004 each include a first and second opening 1075; said container system 1000 further comprising first and second closure systems 1050 along the first and second openings 1075 of the first enclosure 1002 and the second enclosure, the first and second closure systems 1050 each having an open position and a closed position.

The closure systems 1050 can be, but is not limited to, a zipper, a snap system, a tie system, and VELCRO®. The two enclosures 1002, 1004 are permanently attached by a flexible portion 1090 attached to the front or back of the second side panel 1040 of the enclosures 1002, 1004. The enclosure 1002, 1004 can be folded together, and fastened using a fastener system 1060. The fastening device 1060 can be, but is not limited to VELCRO®, a snap system, a tie system, and a loop-and-button system. The panels, outer side and inner side 1010, 1020, 1030, 1040, 1042, and 1044 of the enclosures 1002, 1004 define an interior space, where the sheets are stored, with first enclosure 1002 holding, for example, a flat sheet, and the second enclosure 1004 holding a fitted sheet. Pillowcases, or a third article 930, can be stored in a pouch 1080 located on the interior of the outer side of one of the first enclosure 1002 or the second enclosure 1002. The first enclosure 1002 has a first handle attached to the top panel of the enclosure 1002. The second enclosure 1004 has a second a handle 1070 attached to the top panel 1010 of the second enclosure 1004. When the container system 1000 is in a folded configuration, can be grasped together by a store employee or a consumer as one.

The container system 1000 can further comprise a fastening device 1060 attached the outer side 1042 of the first enclosure 1002 and the outer side 1042 of the second enclosure 1002. The fastening device 1060 enables the container system to maintain a folded configuration. The fastening device 1060 can be one of a hook-and-loop system, a snap system, a tie system, and a loop-and-button system.

FIG. 11 shows the container system 1000 in a partially open configuration, with the fastening device 1060 being a loop-and-button system. FIG. 12 shows the container system 1000 in a closed configuration. Here, the fastening device 1060 is VELCRO®. FIGS. 14 a-14 c are top view of the container system 1000. FIG. 14 a shows the container system 1000 in a fully open configuration. FIG. 14 b is a partially open configuration. FIG. 14 c illustrates the container system 1000 in a closed configuration. FIGS. 15 a-15 b illustrate the container system 1000 of the invention in a fully open configuration, with the closure system 1050 shown as zippers. Here, the zippers are unzipped, and the interior space 1075 is accessible. FIG. 15 a shows material 1090 attached at one side of the second side panel 1040, while FIG. 15 b shows material 1090 attached at the other side of the second side panel 1040.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of displaying or storing a sheet set using the container system 1000 of the invention. The method comprises the steps of providing a container system 1000 as described above, inserting a sheet set into the container system 1000, and displaying the container system 1000 containing the sheet set. In one embodiment, the container system 1000 and sheet can be displayed at a store. In another embodiment, the container system 1000 and sheet set can be displayed in an online or print catalog. The container system 1000 is envisioned as having one, several, or all of the characteristics as shown in FIGS. 10-15 and described above. It is readily apparent to one skilled in the art that one, some, or all of these characteristics can be found in a container system 1000 being used in the method of displaying linens.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of storing a sheet set or other items. Here, the container system 1000 is provided, and a sheet set or other items can be inserted into the container system 1000. The container system 1000 and sheet set or other items can be stored unfolded under a bed or sofa, or unfolded and hung in a closet. The container system 1000 is envisioned as having one, several, or all of the characteristics as shown in FIGS. 10-15 and described above. It is readily apparent to one skilled in the art that one, some, or all of these characteristics can be found in a container system 1000 being used in a method of storing a sheet set or other items.

The foregoing description and drawings merely explain and illustrate the invention and the invention is not limited to these description and drawings. While the specification in this invention is described in relation to certain implementation or embodiments, many details are set forth for the purpose of illustration. Thus, the foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the invention. The invention can have other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristic. The described arrangements are illustrative and not restrictive. To those skilled in the art, the invention is susceptible to additional implementations or embodiments and certain of these details described in this application can be varied considerably without departing from the basic principles of the invention. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements, which, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the invention and, thus, are within its scope and spirit. 

1. A container comprising: an enclosure having an inner side and an outer side, wherein the outer side is substantially transparent; and a first article within the enclosure, wherein the enclosure is foldable, and wherein, when folded, the outer side surrounds the inner side.
 2. The container of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is foldable along an axis and wherein the enclosure further comprises a first flexible portion on the outer side along the axis.
 3. The container of claim 1, further comprising a handle attached to the outer side of the enclosure.
 4. The container of claim 1, wherein the enclosure includes an opening, said container further comprising a closure system along the opening of the enclosure wherein the closure system has an open position and a closed position.
 5. The container of claim 4, wherein the closure system comprises one of a zipper, a snap system, a tie system, and a hook-and-loop system.
 6. The container of claim 1, further comprising a fastening device attached to the enclosure for holding the enclosure in a folded configuration.
 7. The container of claim 6, wherein the fastening device is selected from the group consisting of a hook-and-loop system, a snap system, a tie system, and a loop-and-button system.
 8. The container of claim 1, further comprising: an internal pouch on the outer side; and a second article inside the internal pouch.
 9. The container of claim 8, wherein the second article comprises one of a sheet, a pillowcase, and a pillow.
 10. The container of claim 1, wherein the first article comprises one of a comforter, a sheet, a drape, a blanket, and a mattress pad.
 11. A container system comprising: a first enclosure having a first inner side and a first outer side, wherein the first outer side is substantially transparent; a first article within the first enclosure wherein the first enclosure is foldable, and wherein, when folded, the first outer side surrounds the first inner side; a second enclosure having a second inner side and a second outer side; a second article within the second enclosure wherein the second enclosure is foldable, and wherein, when folded, the second outer side surrounds the second inner side; and a flexible portion connecting the first enclosure and the second enclosure.
 12. The container system of claim 11, further comprising a first handle attached to the outer side of first enclosure and a second handle attached to the outer side of the second enclosure.
 13. The container system of claim 11, wherein the first enclosure includes a first opening and the second enclosure includes a second opening; said container system further comprising: a first closure system along the first opening of the first enclosure wherein the first closure system has an open position and a closed position; and a second closure system along the second opening of the second enclosure wherein the second closure system has an open position and a closed position
 14. The container system of claim 13, wherein first closure system comprises one of a zipper, a snap system, a tie system, and a hook-and-loop system; and the second closure system comprises one of a zipper, a snap system, a tie system, and a hook-and-loop system.
 15. The container system of claim 11, further comprising a fastening device attached to the outer side of the first enclosure and the outer side of the second enclosure for holding the container system in a folded configuration.
 16. The container system of claim 15, wherein the fastening device is one of a hook-and-loop system, a snap system, a tie system, and a loop-and-button system.
 17. The enclosure of claim 11, wherein the first enclosure comprises: an internal pouch on the outer side of first enclosure; and a third article within the internal pouch.
 18. The container of claim 17, wherein the third article comprises one of a sheet, a pillowcase, and a pillow.
 19. The container of claim 11, wherein the first article and the second article comprise one of a comforter, a sheet, a drape, a blanket, and a mattress pad.
 20. A container comprising: an enclosure defined by an outer side, wherein said outer side is substantially transparent; an inner side; a first side panel; a second side panel; a top panel; and a bottom panel wherein the outer side and the inner side are opposite each other, the first side panel and the second side panel are opposite each other, and the top panel and the bottom panel are opposite each other; and wherein the outer side and the inner side are the same size; the first side panel and the second side panel are the same size; and the top panel and the bottom panel are the same size; and wherein the enclosure is foldable, and wherein, when folded, the outer side surrounds the inner side; a fastening device on the outer side of the enclosure for holding the enclosure in a folded configuration; a comforter within the enclosure; a sheet within the enclosure; and a pillowcase within the enclosure. 